Lecture Series

Fall 2008 - Osher Lecture Series
“Baroque Music – A Prelude to the Modern Age”

The lectures in this series focus on innovative baroque vocal and instrumental compositions which were popular with audiences then and now. Baroque originally referred to a large, irregularly shaped pearl used in the extravagant jewelry of the post-Renaissance period. Later art historians used baroque to designate the ornate and emotionally appealing style of art produced c. 1600-1750. Dramatic vitality, strong emotions, symbolism and subtleties are characteristics of baroque art that are also revealed in the new musical traditions of this period. Lecture topics include an overview of the culture & history of 17th century / baroque period, baroque performance practices then and now, baroque instruments and instrumental music, baroque vocal music, textures of baroque music, parallels between jazz and baroque music, and a special holiday presentation featuring Handel’s “Messiah.”

You will be treated to a variety of lively presentations by expert professors who will make the baroque period and its music come alive for you.

Baroque Performance Practices – Then and Now
Wednesday, September 17 - 10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. - Extended Education auditorium
Frances Steiner, Ph.D., CSUDH Emeritus Professor of Music

History of the Baroque Period
Wednesday, October 1 - 10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. - Extended Education auditorium
Jim Jeffers, Ph.D., Chair, CSUDH Department of History

Baroque Music Composition (Materials and Techniques)
Wednesday, October 15 - 10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. - Extended Education auditorium
George Arasimowicz, Ph.D., CSUDH Professor of Music; Dean, College of Arts and Humanities

Vocal Music of the Baroque Period
Wednesday, November 5 - 10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. - Extended Education auditorium
Joanna Nachef, Ph.D., Director of Choral Activities, El Camino College

Parallels Between Jazz and Baroque Music
Wednesday, November 19 - 10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. - Extended Education auditorium
Richard Kravchak, Ph.D., CSUDH Professor of Music & Chair, Department of Music

Handel's Messiah - in Baroque, Jazz and Gospel
Wednesday, December 3 - 10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. - Extended Education auditorium
Hansonia Caldwell, Ph.D., CSUDH Emeritus Professor of Music

Period Instruments and Baroque Instrumental Music
Wednesday, Dec 17 - 10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. - Extended Education auditorium
Jacqueline Shannon, Ph.D., Lecturer, CSUDH Department of Music